http://www.bonika.com
Tue, 26 Sep 2017 21:24:31 +0000http://www.bonika.com/blog/warning-about-twopiece-shears/
Fri, 01 Sep 2017 16:32:44 +0000http://www.bonika.com/blog/warning-about-twopiece-shears/
Some shears have the handle bolted or screwed onto the blade. Bonika Shears does not produce shears like these, but often we confront them when sharpening. It is important before you purchase or sharpen that this special pivot holding the handle to the blade should be checked. These are often Fromm, Eickert, Centrix and other brands This short video will tell you exactly how to do this.
]]>
Some shears have the handle bolted or screwed onto the blade. Bonika Shears does not produce shears like these, but often we confront them when sharpening. It is important before you purchase or sharpen that this special pivot holding the handle to the blade should be checked. These are often Fromm, Eickert, Centrix and other brands This short video will tell you exactly how to do this.
]]>http://www.bonika.com/blog/when-is-90-degrees-zero-degrees-/
Tue, 08 Aug 2017 12:09:46 +0000http://www.bonika.com/blog/when-is-90-degrees-zero-degrees-/
When is 90 degrees Zero degrees? When you switch from
sharpening knives to sharpening beauty shears in the USA.

I trained a new shear sharpener yesterday who has copious
experience in sharpening and making knives. He was left hopelessly confused with
the crazy way we measure angles when sharpening beauty shears and scissors. I
have run into this problem before with people I have trained from Asian
countries who had some limited experience in sharpening hair scissors because
over there, the angle on hair shears is measured in the same way that the angle
on knives and other sharpened tools and instruments are measured throughout the
world.

Here is a chart that will help in converting the angles.
Understand on shears, the higher the angle, the more acute or sharper the edge.

So, things might be upside down in Australia, but shear
angles are for sure backwards and wacked out here in the USA. Don’t expect this
to change. We Americans continue to measure distance in miles instead of
kilometers. Some things you don’t have to understand. You just go with what is
accepted. Since the average age of the American shear sharpener is probably
about 60, I don’t ever expect to see a budge in the USA shear sharpening
scissor mechanics measure shear angles.

Please, Watch, LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to my Youtube videos. I
think this one may explain the angle dilemma for sharpeners who sharpen for the
beauty and hair industry.

]]>
When is 90 degrees Zero degrees? When you switch from
sharpening knives to sharpening beauty shears in the USA.

I trained a new shear sharpener yesterday who has copious
experience in sharpening and making knives. He was left hopelessly confused with
the crazy way we measure angles when sharpening beauty shears and scissors. I
have run into this problem before with people I have trained from Asian
countries who had some limited experience in sharpening hair scissors because
over there, the angle on hair shears is measured in the same way that the angle
on knives and other sharpened tools and instruments are measured throughout the
world.

Here is a chart that will help in converting the angles.
Understand on shears, the higher the angle, the more acute or sharper the edge.

So, things might be upside down in Australia, but shear
angles are for sure backwards and wacked out here in the USA. Don’t expect this
to change. We Americans continue to measure distance in miles instead of
kilometers. Some things you don’t have to understand. You just go with what is
accepted. Since the average age of the American shear sharpener is probably
about 60, I don’t ever expect to see a budge in the USA shear sharpening
scissor mechanics measure shear angles.

Please, Watch, LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to my Youtube videos. I
think this one may explain the angle dilemma for sharpeners who sharpen for the
beauty and hair industry.

]]>http://www.bonika.com/blog/how-to-shorten-a-beauty-shear/
Tue, 01 Aug 2017 11:08:04 +0000http://www.bonika.com/blog/how-to-shorten-a-beauty-shear/
What to do if you drop your shears and one tip breaks off? There is nothing you can do but shorten the other blade. If you are a sharpener of scissor or shears, there may be other occasions as well to have to sharpen a customers's shears. This short video will help you to know how to shorten a shear. The machine used in this video is the Scimech Scissor Flathone.]]>
What to do if you drop your shears and one tip breaks off? There is nothing you can do but shorten the other blade. If you are a sharpener of scissor or shears, there may be other occasions as well to have to sharpen a customers's shears. This short video will help you to know how to shorten a shear. The machine used in this video is the Scimech Scissor Flathone.]]>http://www.bonika.com/blog/have-a-website-why-not-sell-bonika-by-dropship/
Fri, 28 Jul 2017 11:27:56 +0000http://www.bonika.com/blog/have-a-website-why-not-sell-bonika-by-dropship/I just talked to a person who paid $6,000.00 to set up a website and learn to dropship. It's pretty easy to drop ship our shears with Bonika. These are the steps:

Build a website. Not all that hard with the many easy to use inexpensive sites out there. I personally played with GoDaddy and Aabaco for sites I set up for others. This website has a list http://www.websitebuilderexpert.com/website-builders-comparison-chart/ We use bigcommerce which has some glitches and is pricey. I would only suggest it after you have established yourself.

We will contact you and set your account for dropshipping. You can dropship direct from our website by changing the shipping address. I would put in the comment section that this is a dropship and we will be sure there is no literature with your prices in the box. You can also email us the order and we can send a PayPal request for payment or get your credit card number. We will charge you wholesale plus the actual shipping cost.

Put our items (everything but sharpening supplies) on your website. This can be done by clicking on the photo, right click with your mouse, select save as and save on your computer and upload to your website. If you are a little more savvy on websites we can send you an Excel file of all the items that you can upload in one batch.

One more bit of instruction. Our MAP policy dictates that you not advertise below the price we advise the item. You can however give away a free item with a purchase for value added. In addition, if you slightly change the description it can help in the search engines, believe it or not.

FAQ

Is there a "buy-in" to get started?

Yes, just buy one shear! Easy!

How quick do you ship?

Shipping is within one business day.

What methods do you use for shipping? Do you ship international?

We ship every method available on the website. Yes we ship international. Be aware most fraud is from overseas and we are not responsible if you are not paid.

Can I sell on Ebay and Amazon?

At this time the answer is yes. This could change. Please follow our MAP policy. We do not sell on these platforms ourselves so we would not be competing with you.

What about returns?

Customers must contact us for a RA # before they return something to us. We will know if it is one of your customers at that time and will contact you. Refunds to your customers come from you, refunds to you come from us. We do not refund your customers buy on occasion may make exchanges for equal price items but will inform you of this.

]]>I just talked to a person who paid $6,000.00 to set up a website and learn to dropship. It's pretty easy to drop ship our shears with Bonika. These are the steps:

Build a website. Not all that hard with the many easy to use inexpensive sites out there. I personally played with GoDaddy and Aabaco for sites I set up for others. This website has a list http://www.websitebuilderexpert.com/website-builders-comparison-chart/ We use bigcommerce which has some glitches and is pricey. I would only suggest it after you have established yourself.

We will contact you and set your account for dropshipping. You can dropship direct from our website by changing the shipping address. I would put in the comment section that this is a dropship and we will be sure there is no literature with your prices in the box. You can also email us the order and we can send a PayPal request for payment or get your credit card number. We will charge you wholesale plus the actual shipping cost.

Put our items (everything but sharpening supplies) on your website. This can be done by clicking on the photo, right click with your mouse, select save as and save on your computer and upload to your website. If you are a little more savvy on websites we can send you an Excel file of all the items that you can upload in one batch.

One more bit of instruction. Our MAP policy dictates that you not advertise below the price we advise the item. You can however give away a free item with a purchase for value added. In addition, if you slightly change the description it can help in the search engines, believe it or not.

FAQ

Is there a "buy-in" to get started?

Yes, just buy one shear! Easy!

How quick do you ship?

Shipping is within one business day.

What methods do you use for shipping? Do you ship international?

We ship every method available on the website. Yes we ship international. Be aware most fraud is from overseas and we are not responsible if you are not paid.

Can I sell on Ebay and Amazon?

At this time the answer is yes. This could change. Please follow our MAP policy. We do not sell on these platforms ourselves so we would not be competing with you.

What about returns?

Customers must contact us for a RA # before they return something to us. We will know if it is one of your customers at that time and will contact you. Refunds to your customers come from you, refunds to you come from us. We do not refund your customers buy on occasion may make exchanges for equal price items but will inform you of this.

]]>http://www.bonika.com/blog/the-bonika-international-shear-what-makes-it-special-and-how-to-sharpen-it/
Thu, 27 Jul 2017 16:06:17 +0000http://www.bonika.com/blog/the-bonika-international-shear-what-makes-it-special-and-how-to-sharpen-it/
So, what's up with the Bonika International Shear? What makes this shear so special?

The Bonika International is Bonika Shears Flagship Shear. It was the first shear we debut in 1997 at the Bronner Brother's International Hair Show. It was the first shear designed for cutting multicultural hair. Since then, it has gone through changes but has kept the uniqueness of the blade.

On the tip of the International scissor is a microserration installed here at the Bonika Shears facilities. These serrations are created with diamonds and allow this shear to cut crisply and precisely all the way to the tip.

This short video will discuss the difference in the Bonika International Shear and will show the way sharpeners can reinstall the Bonika Tip. It is important for shear sharpeners and scissor sharpeners who decide to sharpen this shear to watch this video clip on how to sharpen the Bonika International Shear.

The serration file and the Bonika International can be ordered through the Bonika.com website. Also, Bonika offers sharpening training at their facility in the Atlanta, GA area.

]]>
So, what's up with the Bonika International Shear? What makes this shear so special?

The Bonika International is Bonika Shears Flagship Shear. It was the first shear we debut in 1997 at the Bronner Brother's International Hair Show. It was the first shear designed for cutting multicultural hair. Since then, it has gone through changes but has kept the uniqueness of the blade.

On the tip of the International scissor is a microserration installed here at the Bonika Shears facilities. These serrations are created with diamonds and allow this shear to cut crisply and precisely all the way to the tip.

This short video will discuss the difference in the Bonika International Shear and will show the way sharpeners can reinstall the Bonika Tip. It is important for shear sharpeners and scissor sharpeners who decide to sharpen this shear to watch this video clip on how to sharpen the Bonika International Shear.

The serration file and the Bonika International can be ordered through the Bonika.com website. Also, Bonika offers sharpening training at their facility in the Atlanta, GA area.

]]>http://www.bonika.com/blog/sharpening-suggestions-on-the-bonika-peacock-shears/
Fri, 14 Jul 2017 11:08:09 +0000http://www.bonika.com/blog/sharpening-suggestions-on-the-bonika-peacock-shears/Watch this Youtube video on how to disassemble the Bonika Peacock Shear. ]]>Watch this Youtube video on how to disassemble the Bonika Peacock Shear. ]]>http://www.bonika.com/blog/whats-all-the-noise-about-these-new-hones-finally-the-contour-hone-stones-and-rideliner-pro-are-now-free-to-watch-on-youtube/
Thu, 06 Jul 2017 15:46:31 +0000http://www.bonika.com/blog/whats-all-the-noise-about-these-new-hones-finally-the-contour-hone-stones-and-rideliner-pro-are-now-free-to-watch-on-youtube/Bonika Shears is proud to have
been able to make both the contour hone stones and the Rideliner Pro videos available free on Youtube as of today. These tools were created by
a sharpener trained by the Bonika Shears team, Dayna Schleufer of Shear Mechanix in Charlotte,
NC. He is continuing to create tools that make sharpening easier and better for the
professional shear sharpener who sharpens for salons and groomers. Today we
have reduced the price of the contour hone stones and have made the videos for
both the contour hone stones and the revolutionary Rideliner Pro available FREE
on Youtube. Please subscribe and watch the videos on our Youtube channel to
become the best sharpener you can be. Bonika Shears is all about education for
the sharpener.

9. How do the Contour Hone Stones compare to the pink ceramic stone and the white ceramic stone from Wolff Industries?

The ceramic stones from Wolff Industries are very good and we still sell them. However, the contour hone stones will give a more accurate and smoother ride to all types of shears. This is why we have switched to the contour hone stone instead of the Wolf ceramic stones in our start up kit for new sharpeners beginning today.

]]>Bonika Shears is proud to have
been able to make both the contour hone stones and the Rideliner Pro videos available free on Youtube as of today. These tools were created by
a sharpener trained by the Bonika Shears team, Dayna Schleufer of Shear Mechanix in Charlotte,
NC. He is continuing to create tools that make sharpening easier and better for the
professional shear sharpener who sharpens for salons and groomers. Today we
have reduced the price of the contour hone stones and have made the videos for
both the contour hone stones and the revolutionary Rideliner Pro available FREE
on Youtube. Please subscribe and watch the videos on our Youtube channel to
become the best sharpener you can be. Bonika Shears is all about education for
the sharpener.

9. How do the Contour Hone Stones compare to the pink ceramic stone and the white ceramic stone from Wolff Industries?

The ceramic stones from Wolff Industries are very good and we still sell them. However, the contour hone stones will give a more accurate and smoother ride to all types of shears. This is why we have switched to the contour hone stone instead of the Wolf ceramic stones in our start up kit for new sharpeners beginning today.

]]>http://www.bonika.com/blog/how-to-use-h42-as-a-blade-cleaning-dip/
Fri, 28 Apr 2017 12:56:34 +0000http://www.bonika.com/blog/how-to-use-h42-as-a-blade-cleaning-dip/Reprinted with permission from NorthernTails Jeff Andrews. Although this information is directed to the animal groomer, it is also relevant to stylists and barbers who want to keep their clippers in good working order. H42 can be ordered at Bonika.com

H-42 is a powerful cleaner/ and lubricant that is made especially to clean clipper blades, it will
not cool. It acts exactly the same as WD-40 but has a very nice perfumed smell to it and it isnít
an oily mess. You can clean the blade and immediately groom a dog with it, its lubed.

Blades will get a reddish buildup between the cutter and comb, this is caused by moisture. The
moisture comes from the animals coat, humidity in the shop, and spray coolants (Kool Lube).If
you use a lot of KOOL LUBE your blades will build up fast and actually seize up and the cutter
wonít be able to move back and forth. This will cause dragging, and could cause parts of the
clipper to be damaged like the hinge, blade drive, or fiber gear. If the clipper parts get
damaged newly sharpened blades may drag or cause ìcorn rowingî in the coat with a
#10/#15/#30 blade. Regular cleaning will get rid of most of the buildup and will prolong the life
of the sharpening. If you donít clean your blades, youíll have to sharpen more often.

If the buildup is not cleaning well with H-42, or it collects a brownish colored film from pet
dander burning between the blades, use ìGOOF OFF - The ultimate removerî as a dip first
and let the blade run a minute then use the H-42 dip to clean this remover off. Be careful with
GOOF OFF, donít get too much on the plastic of your clipper. Wipe off everything good!

Get your H-42 dip and your blade. Clean as
much of the hair from around the spring
and teeth with your toothbrush.
(See our tips on cleaning blades)
Attach the blade to your clipper as
shown. Your now ready to clean the blade
using the H-42 as a dip.

Hold the clipper with both hands for
steadiness and just put the blade into the
H-42 far enough to cover the teeth.
Now turn the clipper on. Immediately the
motor will start to gain rpmís and there will
be black stuff being washed into the dip,
you can see it if you look. Hold it
there until you feel its clean enough then
turn clipper off before pulling it out.

Have a paper towel handy and with the
clippers off, pull the blade from the H-42 and
grab it with the towel to prevent dripping all
over. Continue to wipe the blade until your
satisfied its dry enough. You can even take
the blade off the clipper and wipe both sides
dry. Be sure to wipe the end of the clipper
dry as well. Never hold the clipper straight
up because the H-42 may get sucked inside.
The blade is now clean, lubed, and ready to
use all by using one step cleaning.

Why use H-42 and where can you get it?

This is what blades look like that pick up moisture, note the red
film on the cutting surfaces. This moisture comes from the
animals coat, humidity, slime under matted hair, and spray
coolants. We all use spray coolants but most groomers donít
really know what they are made of. Generally, they are
comprised of 60% alcohol, 39.9% water, and 0.1% lube. The
alcohol cools the blade and gives you the feeling of lubrication
when it momentarily dissolves the red slime between the
blades. In a minute your spraying it again and again.

Your clipper is 50% of your cutting system and can have major
problems from using blades that are coated with film. It is very
hard to move the cutter back and forth because of the buildup,
and when you use a blade like this, it will weaken parts of your
clipper. When these parts are warn they cause major cutting
problems as ìcorn-rowingî, dragging, or the blade doesnít seem
to want to dig in and cut hair. In a shop where blade and clipper
maintenance is low, passing a blade to another groomer to test
for you is bad because their clipper my have worn parts and
may show similar characteristics in the cut as you seen.

In the Andis clipper, coated blades will cause the hinge, the
blade drive, and the front motor mount to fail. These clipper
parts wear out faster than any other clipper in use today.

In an Oster clipper, coated blades will cause the hinge, the
lever, the link, and finally the fiber gear will have a groove worn
in it. These clipper parts are the most expensive to replace.

When sharpeners get a call from a groomer saying that the
blades quit cutting, or they only lasted a week, this reddish
build up is the cause. You have to clean your blades and get this
coating off of them. The coating lifts the teeth of the cutter up
from the comb and the blade starts to drag really bad.

Cutting problems right after sharpening may come from new
tension put on the blades. This can bring out several clipper
problems hidden by worn and looser blades. Groomers need to
change clipper parts regularly, thatís why they sell them in
catalogues. Most groomers donít have any spare clipper parts.

This is a picture of a bottle of H-42, I recommend getting a 8 oz
jar and using it as a dip. It will clean and lube the blades and
keep them clean and free of coatings with regular use. How
often should you use it? As often as you notice any build-up, or
after using spray coolants on your blades a lot. Remember,
spray coolants donít lube your blades at all.

]]>Reprinted with permission from NorthernTails Jeff Andrews. Although this information is directed to the animal groomer, it is also relevant to stylists and barbers who want to keep their clippers in good working order. H42 can be ordered at Bonika.com

H-42 is a powerful cleaner/ and lubricant that is made especially to clean clipper blades, it will
not cool. It acts exactly the same as WD-40 but has a very nice perfumed smell to it and it isnít
an oily mess. You can clean the blade and immediately groom a dog with it, its lubed.

Blades will get a reddish buildup between the cutter and comb, this is caused by moisture. The
moisture comes from the animals coat, humidity in the shop, and spray coolants (Kool Lube).If
you use a lot of KOOL LUBE your blades will build up fast and actually seize up and the cutter
wonít be able to move back and forth. This will cause dragging, and could cause parts of the
clipper to be damaged like the hinge, blade drive, or fiber gear. If the clipper parts get
damaged newly sharpened blades may drag or cause ìcorn rowingî in the coat with a
#10/#15/#30 blade. Regular cleaning will get rid of most of the buildup and will prolong the life
of the sharpening. If you donít clean your blades, youíll have to sharpen more often.

If the buildup is not cleaning well with H-42, or it collects a brownish colored film from pet
dander burning between the blades, use ìGOOF OFF - The ultimate removerî as a dip first
and let the blade run a minute then use the H-42 dip to clean this remover off. Be careful with
GOOF OFF, donít get too much on the plastic of your clipper. Wipe off everything good!

Get your H-42 dip and your blade. Clean as
much of the hair from around the spring
and teeth with your toothbrush.
(See our tips on cleaning blades)
Attach the blade to your clipper as
shown. Your now ready to clean the blade
using the H-42 as a dip.

Hold the clipper with both hands for
steadiness and just put the blade into the
H-42 far enough to cover the teeth.
Now turn the clipper on. Immediately the
motor will start to gain rpmís and there will
be black stuff being washed into the dip,
you can see it if you look. Hold it
there until you feel its clean enough then
turn clipper off before pulling it out.

Have a paper towel handy and with the
clippers off, pull the blade from the H-42 and
grab it with the towel to prevent dripping all
over. Continue to wipe the blade until your
satisfied its dry enough. You can even take
the blade off the clipper and wipe both sides
dry. Be sure to wipe the end of the clipper
dry as well. Never hold the clipper straight
up because the H-42 may get sucked inside.
The blade is now clean, lubed, and ready to
use all by using one step cleaning.

Why use H-42 and where can you get it?

This is what blades look like that pick up moisture, note the red
film on the cutting surfaces. This moisture comes from the
animals coat, humidity, slime under matted hair, and spray
coolants. We all use spray coolants but most groomers donít
really know what they are made of. Generally, they are
comprised of 60% alcohol, 39.9% water, and 0.1% lube. The
alcohol cools the blade and gives you the feeling of lubrication
when it momentarily dissolves the red slime between the
blades. In a minute your spraying it again and again.

Your clipper is 50% of your cutting system and can have major
problems from using blades that are coated with film. It is very
hard to move the cutter back and forth because of the buildup,
and when you use a blade like this, it will weaken parts of your
clipper. When these parts are warn they cause major cutting
problems as ìcorn-rowingî, dragging, or the blade doesnít seem
to want to dig in and cut hair. In a shop where blade and clipper
maintenance is low, passing a blade to another groomer to test
for you is bad because their clipper my have worn parts and
may show similar characteristics in the cut as you seen.

In the Andis clipper, coated blades will cause the hinge, the
blade drive, and the front motor mount to fail. These clipper
parts wear out faster than any other clipper in use today.

In an Oster clipper, coated blades will cause the hinge, the
lever, the link, and finally the fiber gear will have a groove worn
in it. These clipper parts are the most expensive to replace.

When sharpeners get a call from a groomer saying that the
blades quit cutting, or they only lasted a week, this reddish
build up is the cause. You have to clean your blades and get this
coating off of them. The coating lifts the teeth of the cutter up
from the comb and the blade starts to drag really bad.

Cutting problems right after sharpening may come from new
tension put on the blades. This can bring out several clipper
problems hidden by worn and looser blades. Groomers need to
change clipper parts regularly, thatís why they sell them in
catalogues. Most groomers donít have any spare clipper parts.

This is a picture of a bottle of H-42, I recommend getting a 8 oz
jar and using it as a dip. It will clean and lube the blades and
keep them clean and free of coatings with regular use. How
often should you use it? As often as you notice any build-up, or
after using spray coolants on your blades a lot. Remember,
spray coolants donít lube your blades at all.

]]>http://www.bonika.com/blog/understanding-the-basics-of-shear-and-scissor-sharpening/
Thu, 30 Mar 2017 09:45:19 +0000http://www.bonika.com/blog/understanding-the-basics-of-shear-and-scissor-sharpening/Today is the last day in the office before our annual
Sharpeners Jam. I have been working with knowledgeable shear sharpeners and
have been sharpening for so many years I often take for granite that the
average shear sharpener has a fundamental idea of the complexities and geometry
of Japanese style shears. I also assume that even if their sharpening technique
and equipment is different they are reaching for the same goal based on
returning the stylist shear to the original edge. My assumptions are wrong.

When I first began sharpening I did not understand the
purpose and the shape of the hone or ride-line. I was clueless about the shear
set and alignment. But because I practiced with the philosophy “Do no harm” I
was able to restore an edge on a shear that was not badly damaged by using very
smooth ceramic stones and using hand sharpening to follow the angles and edges on
the shears. Unless the shears were damaged by a previous sharpener or had very
deep nicks, I could bring a shear back to a performing level and my customers were
happy … well most of them. I had this nagging doubt that I really didn’t know
all I should.

Today, I still don’t know all that I should, but I have a
better understanding of the shear edge. I have toured three scissor making
factories and trained with sharpeners from factories from 3 different
countries. What I learned is techniques and machinery is different but there
are still fundamentals that all sharpeners must abide by. This is important for
sharpeners to know as well as the owners of quality shears so they can assess
whether their sharpener is following those principles.

Like me in the early years, my technique was not always
perfect but I met success in most of my cases. There are sharpeners who have
good reviews but have not updated their techniques, knowledge and equipment.
They do this by attending sharpening conventions and investing in themselves
and their profession. They do this through certification programs that prove
not only to the stylist but more importantly to themselves that they know what
they are doing.

In 2012, I spoke at the National Beauty Tool Sharpeners
Guild Convention with a presentation entitled “Sharpening Shears – Back to
Basics.” I was the first woman to speak to the convention. In that presentation
I covered this information that is essential to know no matter what technique
or equipment for sharpening scissors a sharpener might use. This video should
make my point. Please watch all three parts.

]]>Today is the last day in the office before our annual
Sharpeners Jam. I have been working with knowledgeable shear sharpeners and
have been sharpening for so many years I often take for granite that the
average shear sharpener has a fundamental idea of the complexities and geometry
of Japanese style shears. I also assume that even if their sharpening technique
and equipment is different they are reaching for the same goal based on
returning the stylist shear to the original edge. My assumptions are wrong.

When I first began sharpening I did not understand the
purpose and the shape of the hone or ride-line. I was clueless about the shear
set and alignment. But because I practiced with the philosophy “Do no harm” I
was able to restore an edge on a shear that was not badly damaged by using very
smooth ceramic stones and using hand sharpening to follow the angles and edges on
the shears. Unless the shears were damaged by a previous sharpener or had very
deep nicks, I could bring a shear back to a performing level and my customers were
happy … well most of them. I had this nagging doubt that I really didn’t know
all I should.

Today, I still don’t know all that I should, but I have a
better understanding of the shear edge. I have toured three scissor making
factories and trained with sharpeners from factories from 3 different
countries. What I learned is techniques and machinery is different but there
are still fundamentals that all sharpeners must abide by. This is important for
sharpeners to know as well as the owners of quality shears so they can assess
whether their sharpener is following those principles.

Like me in the early years, my technique was not always
perfect but I met success in most of my cases. There are sharpeners who have
good reviews but have not updated their techniques, knowledge and equipment.
They do this by attending sharpening conventions and investing in themselves
and their profession. They do this through certification programs that prove
not only to the stylist but more importantly to themselves that they know what
they are doing.

In 2012, I spoke at the National Beauty Tool Sharpeners
Guild Convention with a presentation entitled “Sharpening Shears – Back to
Basics.” I was the first woman to speak to the convention. In that presentation
I covered this information that is essential to know no matter what technique
or equipment for sharpening scissors a sharpener might use. This video should
make my point. Please watch all three parts.

]]>http://www.bonika.com/blog/announcing-the-2017-low-amp-clipper-hone/
Thu, 16 Mar 2017 17:01:55 +0000http://www.bonika.com/blog/announcing-the-2017-low-amp-clipper-hone/Edge Pro announced the upgraded version of the Nebraska Blade Clipper Hone. Below is their press announcement...

Why Update?
For over 16 years the CS-101-2000 Clipper Blade Sharpening Machine had arguably been one of the best
on the market but a lot can change within an industry in that amount of time. When Jason, owner of The
Edge Pro, acquired the Nebraska Blades company in February of 2016 he knew it was time to make
some needed modifications and upgrades to the Classic CS-101-2000 Machine.
Jason, having been a distributor for Nebraska Blades for many years prior to becoming the new owner
was completely aware of the CS-101-2000’s success and shortcomings. Jason had spoken with many
customers over the years about how the machine was not ideal for mobile units but it could work with a
little effort.
Back in 2014 Jason had also acquired Huff’s Wholesale and the rights to the Extreme Kut Clipper Blade
Sharpening Machine. While that machine never saw the market again due to complications with the
manufacturing process, Jason knew that it had some valuable design features he wanted to combine
with the CS-101.
Immediately following the acquisition of Nebraska Blades Jason started drawing up plans for a new and
improved clipper blade sharpening machine that would enable customers to thrive in their shops and in
their mobile units.

What’s New?
The first and most imposing step was to eliminate that pesky 34 AMP draw on startup! After quite a bit
of research Jason discovered he could do away with the current motor and replace it with a more
powerful three phase motor and a WEG VFD controller. Switching motors and adding a VFD gave the
machine some handy new features, one of them being a motor brake to replace the old hand brake.
Secondly, the new machine has a variable speed control knob allowing you to sharpen from a max of
1750 RPMs down to 50% speed (around 875 RPMs but not exactly). Thirdly, upon request, the new
machine can be reversed optimizing the machine for those sharpeners who are left handed. Fourth, but
not least, the initial startup AMP draw of 34 has be dropped to somewhere between 3 to 6 AMPs!
Upon much contemplation, the decision was made to modify the housing cabinet of the machine. The
first modification to note was to bring the outside edge of the cabinet up a little bit higher to cut down
on the amount of grit the wheel throws at the sharpener. This keeps everyone and the sharpening space
a little cleaner. Next, Jason evaluated that sometimes-annoying toggle switch that sticks out and
decided to make all the switches and knobs recessed into the side of the machine.

What About My Old Machine?
Jason knew when the machine was released we would have customers who will want to upgrade their
Classic CS-101-2000 Clipper Blade Sharpening Machines to include the technology and features of the
New CS-201-2017 machine. We have made a conversion kit available as an affordable alternative to
buying a whole new machine.
For only $1300 the kit includes the new motor, the VFD power inverter, the recessed switch housing and
switches, mounting brackets, layout templates and instructions.
While all of this may sound complicated, we have worked very hard to make this a simple conversion for
our customers and as painless as possible. While we tried to keep the process simple, there is some
effort and assembly required but we will be your resource through the process.

What’s The Damage?
The upgrades from the CS-101-2000 to the new CS-210-2017 are extremely valuable to any sharpener.
Unfortunately, the added hardware to the machine pushed the price up slightly. Having said that it is
worth noting that the price on the Classic CS-101-2000, prior to 2017, had stayed the same since 2000 (if
you are curious what that should cost with 17 years of inflation it would be around $2200).
Jason wanted to keep the CS-201-2017 Low AMP machine as affordable as possible but the price could
not stay the same. The new CS-201 Low AMP Clipper Blade Sharpening Machine will start at $1995 with
a 14” diameter rolled aluminum plate and $2195 with a 16” diameter cast aluminum plate.

What If I’m Happy With The Old One?
The plan is to continue selling the Classic CS-101-2000 as the perfect beginner machine. It is called a
“101” because it is an entry level machine and is bare bones and user friendly. The new Low AMP
machine is called a “201” because there is a little more to it than the classic machine.
The CS-101-2000 will be available online and in our catalogs for those customers who are content with it
and in fact, the updated cabinet features will even start showing up on it as well.
It is important to note that in 17 years the world has changed and inflation has caused even fast food
restaurants to remove beloved dollar menus. We still want the CS-101-2000 to be affordable for those
starting out in the industry or simply looking to have a backup but there was no getting around the fact
that pricing needed to be adjusted. The Classic CS-101-2000 Clipper Blade Sharpening Machine will start
at $1695 with a 14” diameter rolled aluminum plate and $1895 with a 16” diameter cast aluminum
plate. This new pricing will go in to effect as of April 1, 2017.

What Now?
The New CS-201 Low AMP Machine became available as of March 1, and we are happy to answer any
questions you may have.
New Nebraska Blades catalogs are also now available via email upon request or snail mail for a small
postage fee.
Keep us in mind.

We want to continue to be a resource for your company and to see it continue to grow
and be successful in the industry.
Nebraska Blades
The Edge Pro
1163 SW Ordnance RD
Ankeny, IA 50023
Phone: 866-963-1990
Fax: 515-964-0616
NebraskaBlades.com
TheEdgePro.com

]]>Edge Pro announced the upgraded version of the Nebraska Blade Clipper Hone. Below is their press announcement...

Why Update?
For over 16 years the CS-101-2000 Clipper Blade Sharpening Machine had arguably been one of the best
on the market but a lot can change within an industry in that amount of time. When Jason, owner of The
Edge Pro, acquired the Nebraska Blades company in February of 2016 he knew it was time to make
some needed modifications and upgrades to the Classic CS-101-2000 Machine.
Jason, having been a distributor for Nebraska Blades for many years prior to becoming the new owner
was completely aware of the CS-101-2000’s success and shortcomings. Jason had spoken with many
customers over the years about how the machine was not ideal for mobile units but it could work with a
little effort.
Back in 2014 Jason had also acquired Huff’s Wholesale and the rights to the Extreme Kut Clipper Blade
Sharpening Machine. While that machine never saw the market again due to complications with the
manufacturing process, Jason knew that it had some valuable design features he wanted to combine
with the CS-101.
Immediately following the acquisition of Nebraska Blades Jason started drawing up plans for a new and
improved clipper blade sharpening machine that would enable customers to thrive in their shops and in
their mobile units.

What’s New?
The first and most imposing step was to eliminate that pesky 34 AMP draw on startup! After quite a bit
of research Jason discovered he could do away with the current motor and replace it with a more
powerful three phase motor and a WEG VFD controller. Switching motors and adding a VFD gave the
machine some handy new features, one of them being a motor brake to replace the old hand brake.
Secondly, the new machine has a variable speed control knob allowing you to sharpen from a max of
1750 RPMs down to 50% speed (around 875 RPMs but not exactly). Thirdly, upon request, the new
machine can be reversed optimizing the machine for those sharpeners who are left handed. Fourth, but
not least, the initial startup AMP draw of 34 has be dropped to somewhere between 3 to 6 AMPs!
Upon much contemplation, the decision was made to modify the housing cabinet of the machine. The
first modification to note was to bring the outside edge of the cabinet up a little bit higher to cut down
on the amount of grit the wheel throws at the sharpener. This keeps everyone and the sharpening space
a little cleaner. Next, Jason evaluated that sometimes-annoying toggle switch that sticks out and
decided to make all the switches and knobs recessed into the side of the machine.

What About My Old Machine?
Jason knew when the machine was released we would have customers who will want to upgrade their
Classic CS-101-2000 Clipper Blade Sharpening Machines to include the technology and features of the
New CS-201-2017 machine. We have made a conversion kit available as an affordable alternative to
buying a whole new machine.
For only $1300 the kit includes the new motor, the VFD power inverter, the recessed switch housing and
switches, mounting brackets, layout templates and instructions.
While all of this may sound complicated, we have worked very hard to make this a simple conversion for
our customers and as painless as possible. While we tried to keep the process simple, there is some
effort and assembly required but we will be your resource through the process.

What’s The Damage?
The upgrades from the CS-101-2000 to the new CS-210-2017 are extremely valuable to any sharpener.
Unfortunately, the added hardware to the machine pushed the price up slightly. Having said that it is
worth noting that the price on the Classic CS-101-2000, prior to 2017, had stayed the same since 2000 (if
you are curious what that should cost with 17 years of inflation it would be around $2200).
Jason wanted to keep the CS-201-2017 Low AMP machine as affordable as possible but the price could
not stay the same. The new CS-201 Low AMP Clipper Blade Sharpening Machine will start at $1995 with
a 14” diameter rolled aluminum plate and $2195 with a 16” diameter cast aluminum plate.

What If I’m Happy With The Old One?
The plan is to continue selling the Classic CS-101-2000 as the perfect beginner machine. It is called a
“101” because it is an entry level machine and is bare bones and user friendly. The new Low AMP
machine is called a “201” because there is a little more to it than the classic machine.
The CS-101-2000 will be available online and in our catalogs for those customers who are content with it
and in fact, the updated cabinet features will even start showing up on it as well.
It is important to note that in 17 years the world has changed and inflation has caused even fast food
restaurants to remove beloved dollar menus. We still want the CS-101-2000 to be affordable for those
starting out in the industry or simply looking to have a backup but there was no getting around the fact
that pricing needed to be adjusted. The Classic CS-101-2000 Clipper Blade Sharpening Machine will start
at $1695 with a 14” diameter rolled aluminum plate and $1895 with a 16” diameter cast aluminum
plate. This new pricing will go in to effect as of April 1, 2017.

What Now?
The New CS-201 Low AMP Machine became available as of March 1, and we are happy to answer any
questions you may have.
New Nebraska Blades catalogs are also now available via email upon request or snail mail for a small
postage fee.
Keep us in mind.

We want to continue to be a resource for your company and to see it continue to grow
and be successful in the industry.
Nebraska Blades
The Edge Pro
1163 SW Ordnance RD
Ankeny, IA 50023
Phone: 866-963-1990
Fax: 515-964-0616
NebraskaBlades.com
TheEdgePro.com